Person dies after car crashes into Waipara River in Amberley, North Canterbury

Police were at the scene of the car crash in Amberley, North Canterbury, last night. Photo / Kurt Bayer

A person has died after their vehicle crashed into a river in Amberley last night.

A police spokeswoman said the vehicle had gone off the road and into the Waipara River, off Double Corner Rd, around 5.35pm on Sunday.

"Two people were initially trapped in the vehicle but were freed," she said. "One of them sadly died a short time later, with the second person receiving moderate injuries."

Hurunui District Mayor Marie Black said she was deeply saddened by the crash. She was not aware of the circumstances of the crash or those involved.

"I can only express my deep sympathies to the family at this stage, as they come to terms with a tragedy such as this.

"This is a real tragedy, it's difficult to find the right words to express but my thoughts are with them all."

Their death would be referred to the Coroner.

A reporter at the scene last night said police officers were using flashlights to search the river below a one-way bridge.

The road was gravel and the area surrounded by farmland. A car appeared to be upside down at the edge of the river.

Two rescue helicopters were sent to the crash scene and the Serious Crash Unit had been advised.